Caryopteris × clandonensis, commonly called Bluebeard, blue spirea, or blue mist, is a low-mounded, deciduous shrub that is valued for its aromatic foliage and late summer flowers which are said to resemble clouds of blue smoke or mist. This hybrid was discovered in cultivation as an accidental cross between C. incana and C. Mongolia. Clandonensis hybrids typically produce about 18-30” of growth per year, so total shrub height (usually from 2-3’) depends in large part upon the extent of winter dieback and/or the annual spring pruning. Flowers are very attractive to butterflies, bees, and other beneficial insects. Foliage is aromatic when brushed with a hand.
| Requirement | |
|---|---|
| Hardiness | 6,7,8,9 |
| Heat Zones | 1,2,3,4,5,6 |
| Climate Zones | 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 |
| Plant Type | Shrubs |
| Plant Family | Lamiace |
| Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
| Season of Interest | Summer, Fall, Mid Spring, Late Summer |
| Height | 3' - 4' |
| Spread | 3' - 4' |
| Water Needs | Average |
| Maintenance | Average |
| Soil Type | Chalk, Loam, Sand |
| Characteristics | Attracts Butterflies |
| Garden Styles | City and Courtyard, Coastal Garden, Gravel and Rock Garden, Informal and Cottage |
| Planting Place | Beds and Borders, Wall-Side Borders |